Potato salad is a classic side dish that never goes out of style, and Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad Recipe stands out as a timeless favorite. This recipe has been passed down through generations, capturing the essence of comfort food with its creamy texture and perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re planning a picnic, barbecue, or family gathering, this potato salad is sure to impress.
We love how Mrs. Gerry’s recipe combines simple ingredients to create a rich and satisfying dish that complements any meal. It’s easy to make and delivers consistent results every time. Let’s dive into the steps to recreate this delicious potato salad that’s been delighting taste buds for years.
Ingredients
To create Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad, we use simple yet flavorful ingredients that blend together to deliver its signature creamy texture and delicious taste. Each element plays a crucial role in capturing the classic essence of this timeless recipe.
Potatoes
The foundation of any great potato salad is the Potatoes we select. For this recipe, the ideal choice is a starchy variety that holds its shape well while absorbing dressing beautifully.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Yukon Gold potatoes | 3 pounds | Peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes |
| Russet potatoes | 2 pounds | Peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes |
Tip: Using a mix of Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes offers the perfect balance of creaminess and firmness.
Dressing Ingredients
The dressing is what truly distinguishes Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad. It combines tang, creaminess, and a hint of sweetness to complement the potatoes perfectly.
- 1 cup mayonnaise (rich and creamy)
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard (adds tangy depth)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (for a bright, subtle acidity)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (balances acidity)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (enhances overall flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for mild heat)
Additional Mix-Ins
To elevate Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad, we add fresh and crunchy mix-ins that bring layers of flavor and texture.
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced (for crunch)
- 1/4 cup red onion, minced (adds slight sharpness)
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish (for subtle sweetness and zing)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish for color and freshness)
Using these thoughtfully selected ingredients ensures that every spoonful of Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad bursts with classic flavors and satisfying texture.
Equipment Needed
To recreate Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad Recipe flawlessly, having the right equipment ensures a smooth and efficient process. Here is the essential kitchen gear we rely on for the best results:
- Large Pot: For boiling the Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes evenly without breaking them apart.
- Colander: To drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and let them cool off quickly.
- Mixing Bowls: At least two are helpful — one for tossing the potatoes and veggies, another for preparing the dressing.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For dicing the celery, red onion, hard-boiled eggs, and chopping fresh parsley.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements of mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, and seasonings keep the classic flavor balanced.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Gently fold ingredients without mashing the potatoes.
- Serving Bowl: A nice bowl to present the potato salad serving, enhancing the picnic or barbecue spread.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boiling potatoes perfectly |
| Colander | Draining and cooling potatoes |
| Mixing Bowls | Combining ingredients and dressing |
| Knife & Cutting Board | Prepping veggies and eggs |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient dispensing |
| Wooden Spoon/Silicone Spatula | Folding mixture gently |
| Serving Bowl | Presenting the finished salad |
By preparing these tools beforehand, we streamline the cooking experience, allowing us to focus on creating that rich, creamy texture and balanced flavors synonymous with Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad.
Prep Work
Before combining all elements of Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad Recipe, we focus on precise preparation to ensure each component contributes to the salad’s signature creamy texture and balanced flavor. Proper prep work lays the foundation for a flawless dish.
Preparing the Potatoes
We start with a mix of Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes for that ideal texture—Yukon Golds add creaminess, Russets provide firmness. Here’s how we prepare them:
- Wash potatoes thoroughly to remove dirt.
- Peel the potatoes for a smooth salad texture; peeling is optional for a rustic feel.
- Cut into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
- Add 1 tsp of salt to season the potatoes as they cook.
- Bring water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart—approximately 10–12 minutes.
- Drain immediately using a colander and spread cubes on a baking sheet or shallow pan to cool slightly, which helps prevent mushiness when mixed.
Preparing the Dressing
The dressing is the heart of Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad, combining tangy and creamy notes.
- In a medium bowl, add:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Whisk the ingredients vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well emulsified.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, balancing the tanginess with a touch more sugar or vinegar.
- Chill the dressing briefly while potatoes cool to allow flavors to meld well before folding into the salad.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Yukon Gold Potatoes | 2 pounds | Creamy texture |
| Russet Potatoes | 2 pounds | Firm potato structure |
| Salt (for boiling) | 1 teaspoon | Season potatoes evenly |
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup | Creamy base for dressing |
| Yellow Mustard | 2 tablespoons | Adds tangy depth |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 1 tablespoon | Brightens flavor profile |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon | Balances acidity |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Enhances overall taste |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds subtle heat |
Our careful potato and dressing preparation ensures Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad attains its classic creamy texture with perfectly balanced flavors every time.
Directions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad that delivers a perfect balance of creaminess and tang.
Cooking the Potatoes
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt.
- Peel the Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes using a vegetable peeler for smooth, uniform pieces.
- Cut the potatoes into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Place the cut potatoes into a large pot and cover with cold water by at least 1 inch.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water.
- Bring the water to a gentle boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to medium and simmer until potatoes are tender but still firm, about 10–12 minutes.
- Test doneness by piercing a potato cube with a fork; it should slide in easily without falling apart.
- Drain the potatoes in a colander and spread them out on a baking sheet to cool completely at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This step prevents mushiness.
Mixing the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl combine the following dressing ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Yellow mustard | 2 tablespoons |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Granulated sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Freshly ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
- Whisk the dressing ingredients vigorously until smooth and creamy.
- Add chilled potatoes to the bowl with the dressing.
- Gently fold in the mix-ins:
- 3 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, minced
- 1/3 cup sweet pickle relish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Carefully combine all ingredients, maintaining the potato cubes’ integrity to preserve the salad’s signature texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.
Chilling the Salad
- Transfer the potato salad to a serving bowl or airtight container.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- For best results serve the salad chilled but not too cold to keep the creamy texture noticeable.
This chilling step helps develop the classic tang and creaminess that defines Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad.
Make-Ahead Tips
To ensure Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad delivers its signature creamy texture and balanced flavors, proper make-ahead preparation is essential. Here are our top tips for prepping this classic side dish in advance:
- Cook potatoes a day ahead: Boil, drain, and cool the potatoes completely before storing them in an airtight container. This allows the potatoes to firm up and better hold their shape during mixing.
- Prepare the dressing early: Whisk the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper together and refrigerate. The flavors will meld, creating a more robust and tangy profile.
- Chill mix-ins separately: Hard-boiled eggs, celery, red onion, sweet pickle relish, and parsley can be chopped and stored in sealed containers to maintain freshness and crunch.
- Combine just before serving: To keep the salad from becoming mushy, mix the potatoes with the chilled dressing and mix-ins shortly before serving. This preserves the distinct textures and vibrant flavors.
| Make-Ahead Step | Preparation Timing | Storage Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Cook and cool potatoes | Up to 24 hours ahead | Airtight container in refrigerator |
| Whisk and chill dressing | Up to 24 hours ahead | Covered bowl or jar in refrigerator |
| Chop and store mix-ins | Up to 24 hours ahead | Separate airtight containers |
| Final assembly | Within 1 hour before serving | Mix gently just before serving |
“The key to the perfect Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad is letting the flavors marry overnight while preserving the texture of the potatoes and fresh ingredients until the last moment.”
Using these make-ahead tips ensures our potato salad arrives at the table with its hallmark creamy consistency and bright layers of flavor, making it an effortless centerpiece for picnics and barbecues alike.
Serving Suggestions
To make the most of Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad, we want to serve it in ways that complement its creamy richness and tangy notes. Here are some thoughtful ideas to elevate your dining experience:
- Pair with Grilled Meats: This potato salad shines alongside grilled chicken, barbecue ribs, or juicy burgers. The creamy texture and zesty dressing provide a perfect balance to smoky, savory flavors.
- Offer as a Picnic Staple: Pack it chilled in an insulated container for easy transport. It’s ideal for outdoor meals, combining convenience with refreshing taste.
- Accompany Seafood Dishes: Serve with fried fish, shrimp, or crab cakes. The crisp crunch from celery and pickles cuts through the richness of seafood, creating a harmonious plate.
- Buffet or Potluck Favorite: Present in a large serving bowl garnished with fresh parsley and extra chopped hard-boiled eggs. This adds visual appeal and encourages generous helpings.
- Complement Fresh Green Salads: A simple leafy salad dressed lightly with a vinaigrette contrasts well, giving a variety of textures and flavors on your table.
Serving Temperature and Presentation Tips
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Serving Temperature | Best served chilled (around 40°F / 4°C) |
| Garnishes | Fresh parsley, additional hard-boiled egg slices |
| Serving Vessel | Wide shallow bowl or classic white ceramic dish |
| Portion Size | ½ cup (120 grams) per person as a side |
“Chilling the potato salad before serving amplifies its creamy texture and helps the flavors meld beautifully.“
Enhancing the Experience
To bring out the best in our Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad Recipe, consider these enhancements:
- Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or freshly cracked black pepper atop each serving for a subtle spice boost.
- Offer small bowls of extra sweet pickle relish or mustard to customize tanginess at the table.
- Serve alongside crusty artisan bread rolls to create a satisfying meal that pleases all palates.
By thoughtfully selecting complementary dishes and presenting our classic potato salad with appealing garnishes and temperature control, we ensure every bite delights and every occasion feels special.
Conclusion
Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad Recipe is more than just a side dish—it’s a timeless favorite that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. With its perfect blend of creamy dressing and fresh mix-ins, it’s easy to see why this recipe has been cherished for generations.
By following the simple steps and using quality ingredients, we can recreate this classic with confidence every time. Whether for a casual picnic or a festive barbecue, this potato salad promises to impress and satisfy.
Let’s keep this tradition alive in our kitchens and enjoy the delicious results that make every gathering a little more special.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of potatoes are best for Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad?
A mix of Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes works best. Yukon Gold provides creaminess, while Russets add firmness, creating the ideal texture balance.
What ingredients are needed for the dressing?
The dressing combines mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper for a tangy and creamy flavor perfect for this salad.
Can I prepare the potato salad ahead of time?
Yes, cook potatoes and prepare dressing a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers and combine with mix-ins just before serving to keep freshness.
How should I serve Mrs. Gerry’s Potato Salad?
Serve chilled in a wide shallow bowl, garnished with fresh parsley and hard-boiled egg slices. It pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, and green salads.
What equipment do I need to make this recipe?
Essential tools include a large pot, colander, mixing bowls, knife and cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, wooden spoon or silicone spatula, and a serving bowl.
How do you ensure the potatoes stay firm and not mushy?
Wash, peel, and cut potatoes evenly, then boil until just tender. Cool them completely before mixing to keep the cubes intact and maintain texture.
What mix-ins enhance the potato salad’s flavor?
Hard-boiled eggs, celery, red onion, sweet pickle relish, and parsley add texture and taste, elevating the classic potato salad to a flavorful dish.
Can I adjust the seasoning in the dressing?
Absolutely. Whisk the dressing ingredients until smooth, then taste and adjust salt, pepper, and vinegar to achieve your desired flavor balance.
Why chill the salad before serving?
Chilling allows flavors to meld and ensures the salad maintains its creamy texture, making it more refreshing and enjoyable at serving time.
Are there any serving suggestions to make the dish special?
Yes, add smoked paprika or extra pickle relish for a twist, and serve with crusty bread rolls to create a complete, satisfying meal.